Are museums free in London?
Quick answer
Mostly yes — 10 of the 13 London museums World Museum Guide covers are always free to enter, including Imperial War Museum, National Portrait Gallery, Natural History Museum. The rest charge admission, though several offer free days or evenings. The full verified list is below.
Verified 2026-06-30 against official sources.
Free entry at London museums
| Museum | Free entry | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Imperial War Museum | Always free | ✓ Free standard admission |
| National Portrait Gallery | Always free | ✓ Free standard admission |
| Natural History Museum | Always free | ✓ Free standard admission |
| Science Museum | Always free | ✓ Free standard admission |
| Tate Britain | Always free | ✓ Free standard admission |
| Tate Modern | Always free | ✓ Free standard admission; charges for special exhibitions |
| The British Museum | Always free | ✓ Free standard admission |
| The National Gallery | Always free | ✓ Free standard admission |
| The Wallace Collection | Always free | ✓ Free standard admission |
| Victoria and Albert Museum | Always free | ✓ Free standard admission |
| Churchill War Rooms | Free days | Imperial War Museums members free |
| Design Museum | Free days | Permanent collection free for members · Under 6 free |
| The Courtauld Gallery | Paid | £11 standard admission |
Facts verified 2026-06-30 against official museum websites — always confirm before travelling.
Frequently asked questions
Which museums are free in London?
Imperial War Museum, National Portrait Gallery, Natural History Museum, Science Museum, Tate Britain, Tate Modern, The British Museum, The National Gallery, The Wallace Collection, Victoria and Albert Museum — always free for the permanent collections. Special exhibitions may charge separately.
Do free London museums require booking?
Some free museums ask for a free timed ticket at busy periods. Check the official website linked from each World Museum Guide profile before visiting.